TT bookings for next year's races are currently 10 per cent up compared to this time last year.

The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company says the increase in motorcycle bookings for 2012 is "indicative" of an increase in the event's popularity.

To further boost visitor numbers the company is running its TT taster offer for the third consecutive year which allows fans to visit the Island during practice week for £99 for a motorcycle and rider.

Mark Woodward, the chief executive of the Steam Packet Company, said: "It is great that advance bookings for motorcycles are ahead of the same period last year and are indicative of the event's increase in popularity.

"The TT taster offers have proved popular in the last couple of years and have helped boost visitor numbers during the festival's quieter periods therefore making a vital contribution to the local economy."

The TT taster offer will be promoted at the Motorcycle Live Show at the NEC in Birmingham which starts tomorrow (Saturday) and runs until November 27.